Many Winnipeg families are now opting for a simple, direct cremation with no funeral. Yet they keep returning to a traditional funeral home to arrange this sacred act. At Branch & Pyre Cremation Care, we are funeral home free, and offer a new, modern way to make these difficult arrangements. From the comfort of your home, you can now make this important decision from your computer, with 24 hr licensed funeral director support. You can then easily plan a memorial or Celebration of Life after. A simple cremation deserves a simple and dignified process.
Aromatherapy for Joint/Muscle Pain
Research shows that aromatherapy could have a powerful impact on your well-being, including joint/muscle pain. Some of the most recommended essential oils to fight inflammation and pain are: 1) Wintergreen – contains methyl salicylate, a compound that has similar properties to aspirin. 2) Cayenne pepper – contains capsaicin, an active ingredient with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. 3) Peppermint – contains menthol and acts as a cooling agent. 4) Marjoram – has analgesic, antibacterial, and antispasmodic properties. These essential oils can be diluted and added to Kombo butter, which is very rich in myristoleic acid and has been found to reduce inflammation and soothe pain.
Physio for Hip Pain
Hip pain can have various causes, including arthritis in older people and repetitive movements in younger, athletic people. Many parts of the body impact the hips and all must be considered when designing a physio program to help reduce and even eliminate hip pain in some cases. Your physio program will depend on the source of your hip pain and will ultimately focus on relieving pain and improving functionality, balance, and range of motion. Exercise is extremely beneficial for anyone who is suffering from hip. Gently opening up the hips helps strengthen muscles and improve range of motion so be sure to stick to your exercise program between physio treatments.
To Do or To Be – That Is The Question
Come fall, our to do lists become expansive and over -flowing beckoning us to address that which we’ve put off for some time in order to enjoy an expansive summer. It can be overwhelming yet oddly comforting to check off each to do item on our list only to discover there is no shortage of more. To be lists are equally important as they allow us to shift out of our heads and spend the quality time with ourselves, nature, music, creativity and the people that fill our hearts. This calms down our nervous system. Taking the time daily to do & to be, creates harmony and balance in our lives.
5 Tips for Being Physically Active
1. Start where you can and set reasonable goals. If you feel you have little opportunity to exercise, start by adding a bit of physical activity into your daily routine.
2. Think of it as “activity”, not “exercise”. Choose activities and sports that you enjoy, and physical activity won’t seem like a chore or task to tick off.
3. Once you get going, aim for at least 1 ½ hours of moderate-to-vigourous physical activity per week.
4. Consider aerobic activities. Aerobic activities, such as walking, swimming, hiking and dancing, can help maintain general fitness.
5. Plan out your physical activity with someone you know. That way, you are more likely to keep active while you also gain the brain-healthy benefits of social interaction.
Community Announcement
Friendly Visitor Program – offers a weekly visit or phone call from a trained volunteer for seniors who are isolated and lonely. This program also encompasses hospital visits and coordinating delivery of library books.
Senior Information Access Support – helps seniors navigate various systems (internet applications, forms, phone calls etc…). Community resources referral. Assistance with grocery shopping and delivery.
Caregiver Support Program – provides monthly support groups for caregivers to have an opportunity to speak with, listen to, and support other caregivers.
Caregiver Respite – facilitates monthly fun social activities for people with dementia so caregivers can have a brief break.
Volunteer Training – Our volunteers are valued a lot, and that is one of the reasons we put so much effort into orientation and ongoing education.
Fall Prevention Tips
Falls in the home are all too common. The good news is, you can make a few modifications in the home that can prevent potential hazards, such as slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter. Start by visiting each room in your home, looking at the space objectively. Ask yourself: Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a risk? If so, think about the many ways to create a safer home: wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.
COVID Boosters & Flu Shots
This is going to be a very busy season for vaccinations in the pharmacy. For the first time, you will be able to get a COVID fall booster AND a flu shot during the same visit. As before, you will not be able to schedule a COVID shot if it has been less than 6 months since your previous booster. To book an appointment, call 1-833-838-2323 or go online to gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated, and choose Medicine Shoppe #414 as your preferred site. We will open up additional appointments as long as there is demand and we have a supply of vaccine. See you soon!
The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, MedicineShoppeCourtenay.ca
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
According to a recent survey, 90% of North American homeowners between the ages of 55 and 75 would like to stay in their long-time home as they get older. And, not surprisingly, 66% of seniors believe their home is where they will be most comfortable, with 53% believing they will stay healthier in their own home. But living out that scenario and remaining in the driver’s seat calls for a plan of action – and an understanding of potential safety risks in the home. Home care makes it possible to remain home despite physical challenges. From respite care to 24-hour in-home care, services can be tailored to meet your needs.
Conditions Affected by Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is connected to many other health conditions of the body. While hearing loss may not be the cause of these diseases or conditions, it is considered a risk factor for many. *Tinnitus refers to the sensation of perceiving sounds that have no external source—in other words, hearing sounds that are not there. *Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes recurring episodes of severe dizziness (vertigo), ear pressure, tinnitus and hearing loss. It typically affects only one ear, although some people experience symptoms in both ears. *Treating hearing loss aggressively can help ward off cognitive decline and dementia.
Prepare for Flu Season
Flu season is here, and that means we need to practice healthy habits to lower our risk of getting sick. Here are some things you can do to avoid catching and spreading the flu: 1) Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. 2) Sanitize surfaces that are touched often, such as light switches, door knobs, and computer keyboards. 3) Avoid touching your face. 4) Wash your hands often. 5) Stay home when you’re sick. 6) Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutrient-dense food. 7) Get plenty of sleep. 8) Book an appointment to get your flu shot.


